Launch tube antenna

Abstract

An antenna mounted within a missile launch tube which acts as a communican link between the launcher and the missile. The launch tube is made of fiberglass with a metallic conductor embedded therein to provide radio frequency radiation. The antenna is in the form of a helical conductor and provides radiation in the tube's axial direction.

I claim: 
     
       1. A tube for launching a missile and providing a communication link between the tube and the operator, comprising: a launch tube made of fiberglass material; arm and fire wiring disposed at one end of said tube, and an antenna embedded in said tube and disposed from said wiring for providing communication signals from the operator to the missile while in flight. 
     
     
       2. A tube as set forth in claim 1 wherein said antenna is in the form of a helical conductor. 
     
     
       3. A tube as set forth in claim 2 wherein said tube is provided with a connector for connection with said antenna.